Parent Education at The Rotunda

Midwife specialists provide the classes. A social worker, physiotherapist, and the Perinatal Mental health team give extra help and advice at the first class, which is for mums-to-be only. Partners are encouraged to come to classes 2 – 6.

The classes take the form of relaxed, interactive discussions and demonstrations. They help parents to become more involved in the pregnancy. The classes also help to calm fears by explaining the physical and emotional changes that take place during pregnancy. You get a chance to share experiences with others and you gain the skills and confidence to make birth and parenthood a positive experience.

We encourage all pregnant women to attend parent education classes. You will be offered an appointment to attend an introductory class (mums-to-be only) at your booking visit. It is advised to start the remaining five classes ten weeks before your baby is due. In the hospital, in-person classes are held twice a week and last for three hours. Birthing Partners are welcome, if your partner is unable to attend, a friend or relative is welcome to come with you.

• Healthy eating during pregnancy

• Exercise in pregnancy

• Posture and prevention of back pain

• Care and health in pregnancy

• Relaxation techniques

• Signs of labour and admission to hospital

• Coping skills for labour

• Care during the stages of labour, including pain relief

• Tour of the delivery suite (depending on how busy it is at the time)

• Care of the newborn

• Baby feeding and weaning

• Adjusting to parenthood – emotional and psychological aspects

• Exercises for after the birth of the baby

• Going home with a new baby

• Family planning

Refresher classes are also available and are aimed at women who already have a child. If you find you are unable to join the ZOOM classes, there are classes in your local community.

Special classes are held for couples with support needs (including teenage pregnancy, hearing impairment, language difficulties, sight impairment and adoptive parents).